Determination of radioactivity levels in Akhisar, Gordes, Golmarmara and Sindirgi regions, Western Turkey

WOS: 000330780800008In this study, radioactivity measurements in the environment of Akhisar, Golmarmara, Gordes and Sindirgi regions in Western Turkey were investigated in order to evaluate the implications of any excess radioactivity in the environment of geological formation. The radioactivity concentrations of K-40, U-238 and Th-232 radionuclides in the soil samples were measured by a NaI(Tl) gamma spectrometer system, and the radium activity concentrations in the water samples were also analyzed by an ZnS(Ag) alpha counter by the collector chamber method. The radioactivity of K-40, U-238 and Th-232 in soils ranged 2.80-2,347.77, 9.90-256.19 and 9.66-106.53 Bq kg(-1), respectively. The activity of Ra-226 in the water samples ranged from 0.03 Bq L-1 (0.89pCi/L) to 0.80 Bq L-1 (21.58pCi/L). In addition, the external terrestrial gamma dose rate in air (nGy h(-1)), annual effective dose rate (mSv year(-1)) and radium equivalent activity (Bq kg(-1)) were calculated and compared with international standard values.Celal Bayar University Scientific Research Projects Coordination (BAP)Celal Bayar University [2010/10]In this study, Celal Bayar University Scientific Research Projects Coordination (BAP) No. 2010/10 with the Project is supported

Radon Levels in Romanian Caves: An Occupational Exposure Survey

A comprehensive radon survey has been carried out in seven caves located in the western half of Romania’s most significant karst regions. Touristic and non-touristic caves were investigated with the aim to provide a reliable distribution of their radon levels and evaluate the occupational exposure and associated effective doses. Radon gas concentrations were measured with long-term diffusion-type detectors during two consecutive seasons (warm and cold). All investigated caves exceed the European Union reference level of radon gas at workplaces (300 Bq/m3). The radon concentration in these caves ranges between 53 and 2866 Bq/m3, reflecting particular cave topography, season-related cave ventilation, and complex tectonic and geological settings surrounding each location. Relatively homogeneous high radon levels occur in all investigated touristic caves and in Tăuşoare and Vântului along their main galleries. Except for Muierii, in all the other caves radon levels are higher during the warm season, compared to the cold one. This suggests that natural cave ventilation largely controls the underground accumulation of radon. The results reported here reveal that the occupational exposure in Urşilor, Vadu Crişului, Tăuşoare, Vântului, and Muierii caves needs to be carefully monitored. The effective doses to workers vary between an average of 0.25 and 4.39 mSv/year depending on the measuring season. The highest values were recorded in show caves, ranging from 1.15 to 6.15 mSv/year, well above the European recommended limit, thus posing a potential health hazard upon cave guides, cavers, and scientists